The recent conflict in the Middle East has raised concerns for both the World Endurance Championship and the Formula 1 season opener. The FIA has been carefully monitoring the situation since the United States and Israel conducted strikes on Iran, resulting in retaliatory attacks by Iran and its allies on various countries in the region. As a result, the Pirelli wet-weather running test in Bahrain was canceled for safety reasons due to the evolving international situation.
This conflict has also affected travel plans for the F1 paddock heading to the Australian Grand Prix, as many Middle Eastern countries have closed their airspace. However, race organizers have managed to reshuffle flights and ensure that all personnel will be present for the event without causing any noticeable disruptions for fans.
Although F1 downplayed the impact on its calendar, the WEC is facing challenges as its next event is scheduled to take place in the region in less than three weeks. The WEC management is in constant communication with Qatari authorities to assess the situation and ensure the safety of competitors, personnel, and fans.
FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem has called for unity and dialogue amidst the geopolitical conflict in the Middle East. Safety and wellbeing remain a top priority for both the FIA World Endurance Championship and the FIA Formula One World Championship, as organizations continue to monitor the situation closely and make decisions accordingly.
